Why Does My Dog Stretch So Much? [Explained]

It is a well-known fact that dogs enjoy stretching. I honestly can’t blame them. It feels good to stretch out.

The sensations and feelings you get are definitely satisfying. Yet, sometimes they may stretch a little too often. Who would’ve ever thought you could stretch too much?

why does my dog stretch so much
Why does my dog stretch so much?

I’m sure most dog owners are curious to know why this is. Others may also wonder why overstretching in dogs is related to health issues. 

Many factors play a part in this habit. There are specific types of stretches they perform as well. In this article, we will dive deeper into understanding what these stretches mean and how to operate if it becomes a little too much. 

Stretching is Natural 

Similar to humans, stretching is natural for our puppies. Not only is it normal, but it’s a part of daily life. For instance, if I’ve been sitting for a long period, I subconsciously stand up and need to stretch my legs.

The same goes for dogs. After laying down or waking up from a nap, they wake up and stretch it out. 

It is a fact for just about any living creature that muscle tightness forms after resting for long periods. Stretching out loosens up the muscles, allowing our dogs to become more flexible.

dog yawning
A dog yawning in a bed.

Play Bow

Stretching can also mean your puppy wants to play as well! Another type of stretching is called a “Play Bow.” As dog owners, you can recognize this gesture when they stretch their front legs while their backside is up in the air, which is a simple play invitation!

I often see my pup doing this. She not only does it towards me but to other puppies as well. My house often gets loud as my two dogs love to play!

There is no harm in this gesture, simply their way of communicating. So next time you see your dog perform this stretch, it’s a sure sign that it is time to play!

French Bulldog stretching
French Bulldog stretching front legs.

Splooting

Another type of stretch they perform is splooting. Splooting is when a pup stretches both its hind legs out, lying flat on its belly. Gilbertsville Veterinary Hospital dives deeper into the science behind splooting, explaining the different types of positions: The Classic Sploot, The Side Sploot, & the Full Sploot.

Research states that the Corgi breed initially started the Sploot, but all dogs can perform the stretch, depending on their flexibility. All in all, splooting is a comfortable way for dogs to lie out and relax!

hind legs stretching
Dog stretching hind legs.

Mating Call

Lastly, your puppy may be stretching because there is another female dog around! Love is in the air! 

This stretch is an expression of sexual intimacy, commonly performed by male dogs. Male dogs are capable of sensing when another female dog is in heat. During this time, the female releases hormones that the male can smell. 

Once the male senses it, he stands up, stretches out, and gets himself ready to mate. This common process with male dogs can lead to a nice batch of small puppies. Who doesn’t love puppies?!

two Peruvian hairless
Two Peruvian hairless dogs, one is licking the other.

Tired

Commonly, dogs will stretch when they are tired. Just as they do when first waking up in the morning or from a nap, stretching is another indicator that your puppy could be a little sleepy. When we as humans get tired, we tend to stretch it out.

You might even yawn as well. Dogs are the same way. It is amazing how dogs and humans are very similar! 

Sleep is very crucial in a dog’s life. The key to having a healthy dog is to ensure they get the proper rest. If rest and sleep are a problem for your dog, you may need to seek professional help.

Beagle lying on the carpet
Beagle lies on the carpet and not feeling well.

Bloating

If your dog is displaying too much stretching, it may be suffering from bloating. According to the Veterinary Medical Center, bloating, also known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), is when a dog’s stomach is filled up with gas, food, or fluid, causing twisting pain. 

will a dog with bloat poop
Will a dog with bloat poop? [Look out for these signs]

Causes of Bloating

The VMC also mentions some causes of bloating, which include: 

Other factors play a role in the causes of bloating. It is very important as dog owners we pay close attention to these indicators and take good care of our pets. 

puppy eats
Puppy enjoys eating his wet food.

Signs & Treatments of Bloating

Unfortunately, bloating can be vital and needs to be treated asap. We must catch the signs early and take action. Specific signs of bloating include:

  • Pain in the abdomen
  • Excessive panting or rapid breathing
  • Excessive drooling from the mouth
  • Dry heaving 
  • Overall look of distress

There has been much research that has shown other key factors on this topic. But, on a positive note, studies show effective treatment that will decrease the severity of this sickness. If your dog is suffering from bloating, I highly recommend taking a trip to see your veterinarian because surgery might be needed.

Yet, it also depends on the breed of the dog and the severity of the bloating.

To prevent our pups from bloating, we should take into consideration the amount of food they are eating. Provide smaller meals instead of large meals. Also, don’t allow your dog to drink too much water at once. 

Finally, dog owners should limit strenuous exercise after eating. It is wise to wait a few hours before allowing them to partake in any exercise, which will allow their food to digest properly and prevent GDV. 

Jack Russell Terrier lying on the table
Jack Russell Terrier is lying on the table at a vet clinic.

Conclusion 

As mentioned, stretching is not all bad for dogs. Only when it becomes too excessive is when you should be worried. But naturally, dogs enjoy stretching and do it for many different reasons.

Doing the proper research on these specific topics will help you better understand how to take care of your puppy. Furthermore, taking action is vital as well.

Monitoring their actions, food and water intake, and overall well-being is critical, which will lead to a healthy and prosperous life for you and your pup!